Chestnuts in Spain and the festivals associated with them. Preparing edible chestnuts.

Spain is a country where traditions are closely intertwined with culture, and one of the most interesting and popular traditions is the celebration of the chestnut festival. This holiday has become a true symbol of autumn and a gastronomic joy for many Spaniards.

Feast of Los Magostos (Los Magostos)

Los Magostos (or La Castañada) is a festival celebrated in some regions of Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Catalonia, Asturias, Galicia and Castile and Leon. This festival is usually celebrated on the last day of October or the first of November.

One of the main traditions of Los Magostos is the roasting of chestnuts and the preparation of sweet and caramelized pumpkins. People also prepare other traditional dishes such as pancakes and sweet drinks. This holiday is usually associated with the autumn harvest and thanksgiving for the harvest. In some areas, Los Magostos also includes the celebration of Halloween.

Amagüestu Festival

Amagüestu is an Asturian festival associated with the celebration of autumn and the chestnut harvest. This traditional festival is celebrated in September or October, when the chestnuts ripen. Amagüestu has its roots in the traditions of Asturian culture in Northern Spain.

One of the main parts of the Amagüestu festival is a picnic or open-air dinner, during which people roast chestnuts and prepare other dishes made with this product. They may also prepare dishes with apples, which are also a symbol of autumn.

An important part of the celebration are traditional games and entertainment, such as music, dancing and other forms of entertainment. Amagüestu participants enjoy the festive atmosphere and fun together with family and friends.

It should be noted that Amagüestu is a traditional celebration that preserves the authentic character of Asturian culture.

It is important to note that traditions may vary in different regions of Spain, and other chestnut celebrations may be at the regional or city level.

The Chestnut Festival in Spain is not just an event, but a true rite that unites people, promotes traditions, and celebrates the taste and sophistication of chestnuts in a broader context.

We have prepared some popular chestnut recipes for you.

CHESTNUTS IN A FRYING PAN

When cooking chestnuts in a pan, it is important to remember that this is not just a cooking method, but a real process that enriches the chestnuts with aromas and adds a special taste. Follow the instructions, and your chestnuts in a pan will be not only delicious, but also fragrant.

Instructions for cooking chestnuts in a pan:

1. Rinse the chestnuts thoroughly, and if they have been sitting for a while or were purchased at a store, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes.
2. Make cuts on the chestnuts.
3. Use a frying pan with a thick bottom and walls (not Teflon) and place it over high heat.
4. Pour the chestnuts into the heated pan.
5. Stirring constantly, roast them for 15–20 minutes. Cooking time depends on the size of the chestnuts and the pan.
6. Once the chestnuts are toasted, cover the pan and leave them for 5 minutes, or remove them and wrap them in a towel.

MICROWAVE-ROASTED CHESTNUTS

Another exciting way to cook chestnuts is to use a microwave oven. This method preserves the flavor and health benefits of chestnuts. The speed of cooking makes this method especially appealing.

Instructions for cooking chestnuts in the microwave:

1. Rinse the chestnuts thoroughly, and if they have been sitting for a while or were purchased at a store, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes.
2. Make cuts in the chestnuts and place them in a microwave-safe dish.
3. Add a little water to the bottom of the dish so that it does not cover the nuts.
4. Place in the microwave on maximum power for 3–5 minutes.
5. Drain the water and dry for another 30 seconds in the microwave until cooked.
6. After removing, immediately peel the chestnuts and enjoy.

OVEN-ROASTED CHESTNUTS

If you're looking for a way to cook chestnuts that combines traditional flavor with modern techniques, oven cooking is the best choice. This method allows you to preserve the chestnuts' flavor and choose the degree of roasting.

Roasted chestnuts in the oven are a modern interpretation of a classic cooking method. The use of temperature control and other innovations allows you to preserve all the deliciousness and beneficial properties of chestnuts.

Instructions for cooking chestnuts in the oven:

1. Rinse the chestnuts thoroughly, and if they have been sitting for a while or were purchased at a store, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes.
2. Make cuts on the chestnuts.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chestnuts on it.
4. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees and place the chestnuts in it for 15 minutes.
5. Stir the chestnuts and leave them in the oven for another 5–10 minutes. The time may be slightly longer for larger nuts.
6. After cooking, you can season the chestnuts with your favorite seasoning or salt.

Try this cooking method to enjoy the traditional taste of chestnuts with a modern approach to cooking. Enjoy!